We have had our current security system for about a year now. We have been extremely happy with it, our favorite feature being that we can access our system from ours phones. Our installation was quick and professional. The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is lately the system has been failing to arm. When we called to ask the company, they said the chip needed to be replaced for $80. Overall we are happy though!
ADT’s Control Package offers its basic coverage and more. It also starts with a $125 upfront equipment fee, but with a monthly monitoring fee of $36.99, it adds home automation, giving you more control over the features and systems within your home regardless of whether you’re on site. In addition to remote web and mobile access, you can receive email and text notifications for various security triggers.
“I accidentally touched button on my emergency base unit. Response time was excellent. I know if it was a genuine emergency for me your staff would respond immediately with efficiency and professionalism. I feel very secure with this system. I will definitely recommend this unit to my friends and associates. We do have an ADT Security System and we are happy and satisfied with this as well.” – Ellen, Oct 7, 2017, Consumer Affairs
With ADT Pulse you can control things like lights, door locks, garage doors, and your thermostat all from your smartphone—though it is one of ADT’s more expensive monthly plans ($52.99 per month). ADT is also one of the highest-rated companies for security performance because it uses technology and equipment from Honeywell (the same company that manufactures many high-end commercial security products).
*$99 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $36.99 per month ($1,331.64), 24-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $36.99 ($887.76) for California, including Quality Service Plan (QSP). Form of payment must be by credit card or electronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Premier Provider customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer.
Frontpoint requires a professional monitoring subscription plus a three-year contract. Monitoring plans range from $35 to $45 to $50 per month, each ascending tier unlocking additional features like home automation, mobile alerts, and camera storage. While not as flexible if you want to take a minimalist or independent approach to security, but appealing if you want the extra perks.
ADT's latest rev of its software also supports its own Amazon Alexa skill. According to ADT, customers with an Alexa-enabled device, like an Amazon Echo, will be able to use it to arm and disarm their alarms and even access their smart devices using Alexa's voice recognition. However, this is not biometric voice security, meaning your individual voice pattern will not be enough to access the system; you'll still need to enter your alarm code or Pulse access pin number verbally.
After being a customer for the past eight years, I tried to upgrade. My monthly price had exceeded $60 a month with old features. I scheduled to installs with the sales department. After hanging up the local office calls to confirm appointment they told the tech will collect the total payment. I said this was not agreed upon. Each time I had to call Customer service to try and straighten it out. Its been a total nightmare.
Overall, I'm very happy with the ADT Pulse system. I definitely experienced some sticker shock at the initial setup cost, but considering the level of service and all the equipment installed, the price is justified, and on a monthly basis, not that much higher than most of the competition. The three-year service contract definitely lags behind our other Editors' Choice winner, Vivint, but it's not a big heartache if you know you're not going to leave your current residence and completely opt out of the ADT service inside of three years.
I had ADT for a couple of years. I did not have any issues but then again I did not have any break-ins. I wish that I would have gotten a security system in my apartment as it has been broken into twice now. ADT was easy to use, easy to pay for, which for me is a HUGE bonus. I like being in full control of where my money goes and when and this was the case with ADT. Being able to go online and change things as I see fit. The customer service reps are always efficient and polite although the hold times can get ridiculous.
Some of the best home security cameras are ones you can buy in addition to your larger system. Brands like Nest and Arlo offer high resolution cameras equipped with night vision and two-way communication. Most are affordable and easy to integrate with your system. Nest cameras, for example, are compatible with ADT and Vivint. Before purchasing a separate camera, make sure it pairs with your home security system.

At the end of the install, he goes to test the signal…it cuts in an out (it was cellular). Two hours later at 8:00, he still can’t get a continuous signal. He tells me he’ll have to come back tomorrow with an antenna to put in the CLOSET (please explain how this makes sense) to get better signal. This means more holes in my walls and another tech in my house and another afternoon of mine wasted watching these guys use their tools. Fourth problem I had.

At the end of the install, he goes to test the signal…it cuts in an out (it was cellular). Two hours later at 8:00, he still can’t get a continuous signal. He tells me he’ll have to come back tomorrow with an antenna to put in the CLOSET (please explain how this makes sense) to get better signal. This means more holes in my walls and another tech in my house and another afternoon of mine wasted watching these guys use their tools. Fourth problem I had.

A good review post! I have been in this industry for many years and along with using many different companies so far (both at home and work) I've come back around to ADT. It's a long story but I got hosed when my small boutique moved and I was using a local security company that was charging me an arm and a leg to move and upgrade so I went back to ADT pulse after paying their cancellation fee and I'm able to use it at both my Home and Business with a discount too.

I mean what do you want from them? Ask yourselfs what do you do for a living? Ill give you a little food for thought( your a bartender/ owner you are running a special for miller light draft at 1 dollar a glass. I come in and say I want jack and coke. You charge me 5 dollars and I complain, scream whatever that it say’s 1 dollar.) Are you F*ing kidding me? READ the advertisment!

Also, don't expect ADT to listen to your complaint. You won't get past helpdesk support. They suggest you write a letter if you want to speak to anyone higher that helpdesk. A LETTER!, what century does this company live in. They must all drive to work using a Horse and Buggy. I knew at that point this wasn't the type of company that could provide me with the type of advanced security system you would expect in the 21st century.
I looked at so many reviews and everyone always has ADT in the top three. My wife and I were getting concerned about the safety of her and our new little one when I have to go out of town every other weekend so we got ADT and I must say the experience was refreshing. Everyone we spoke with knew what they were doing and we had our system up and running lightning fast.
There are a few things you should do when an ADT tech gets to your house so I am passing these tips onto everyone that reads this. First make sure you get all the signs and decals you want. Putting stickers on the back doors and windows where burglars typically come through could be a life saver. Also, make sure they walk you through how to run the Pulse app on your phone. It's really easy but I was confused on my account login information and they helped out there. Lastly, make sure to write down your verbal password (to verify false alarms) and let your whole family know. So far their security system has been what we needed!

With professional monitoring, a monitoring service keeps an eye on the status of your alarm system and will contact you within minutes of an alarm to confirm if it’s a true emergency. If so, they’ll dispatch the police or other services for you. If you don’t pick up, most companies will call whomever you’ve designated as your emergency contact. If there’s still no response, they’ll typically dispatch the police.

*$99 Customer Installation Charge. 24-Month Alarm Monitoring Agreement required at $33.99 per month ($815.76). Form of payment must be made by credit card or electronic charge to your checking account or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restrictions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. 24 month applies to California. All other states require 36 month alarm monitoring agreement ($1223.64). Offer not available in all areas.
Terrible sales, installation, and service, especially for someone providing such critical installation and monitoring. They're great at acting nice, then following up with nothing or (at best) a bait-and-switch with extra charges, going back on their word, and requiring that you pay more money to get what was sold on the front end. I read the promotion fine print, read the contract, discussed with the technician and branch manager to clarify all the pieces. Then got passed through no less than two disjointed and loosely affiliated call centers which continued to require additional forms, contracts, and payments in order to get the original payment terms and rebates that drove the initial sale. You should pay more for service from a different company, because ADT will end up costing you more before the dust settles.

Updated on 11/21/2018: I wanted to follow up regarding the resolution to my situation. Turns out there is no resolution. I called, emailed and called again the CEO's office and they didn't can would not answer my questions. Hung up on me. Their so called Corporate Relations Manager, is a joke, she needs a back to basics training in customer service. They know they are wrong that is why they will not comment on my review. If you look at other 1 star reviews put on here after mine, you will see their response to say sorry to the customer, but mine? They won't even bother. They know I am telling the truth. Since they want to go ahead and blacklist me and remove services, that's fine. I will gladly take my money elsewhere; but they couldn't answer the one question I had for them that they are trying to use as their defense. Where does it say in the contract that they can cancel at any time and for any reason? Nowhere! Read the fine print.

Many times agreed to vist me, let’s say Wednesday morning so I decided to stay and wait just to receive a call that afternoon to reschedule. Can you believe it? Not even explaining/apologizing first. Sensors falling and activating the alarm causing the cops to come to finally find out that the sensor simply fall from the double face tape it was holding it. Yes, double face tape. Also, if you move in the middle of the 3 years contract, you are not allowed to continue the agreement at the new address. You need to start 3 years again or pay the whole remaining months. I WOULD NEVER GO BACK OR RECOMMEND ADT.
While most providers give you the option to add both indoor and outdoor cameras to your security package, SimpliSafe’s selection is limited to one indoor surveillance camera. The camera includes features like free streamable HD video and audio, 30-day storage, and night vision, but it doesn’t take snapshots of activity and can’t pan or move — basic features found on most surveillance cameras.
ADT utilizes a nationwide network of authorized dealers as well as their own personnel to sell, install and support ADT security system. The dealer network allows ADT to maintain a local presence for their customers while providing the stability and service capabilities of a large, national security provider. However, it can also lead to an inconsistent experience for customers and negative customer reviews. Online customer reviews typically revolve around issues with local dealers and include missed appointments, aggressive upselling and misrepresentation.

As a new home owner, I made the mistake of letting myself get talked into buying a home security system by an ADT sales representative who came to my door. I am writing this review in the hope of preventing others from making the same mistake I did. The contract I now find myself in and the monthly payments I will need to make for three years is completely my own fault for making a poor decision as a consumer. I have found my ADT service to be over priced and unnecessary. My advice for new home owners: When an ADT sales representative comes to your house, don’t worry yourself over talk of bumper keys and burglaries, different contract options, and taking advantage of the new home owner “deal” before it is too late — simply don’t answer the door.

Average contracts: Customers sometimes complain that the 36-month contracts for ADT monitoring are too long. We should point out that a 36-month contract is fairly standard in the home security industry. However, customers who care about shorter contracts with more flexibility could look into other companies. For example, Vivint customers who pay for all their security equipment up front don’t need monthly contracts, and Link Interactive offers shorter contract options (starting at 12 months).
Not specifically to do with the cameras, more the system it is attached to, but generally speaking you are only able to record a single 30s clip every 5 minutes. That’s a game-changer and should be enough to avoid ADT completely. I have a little “trick” in place which will allow me to record 1:30 (3 contiguous 30s clips) after motion is detected which is messy, but better that 30s.
When it comes to home security I'm a basic kind of guy. I just want it to know if someone breaks in my house so I can have my gun ready and protect my family. I use ADT, it seems the most logical and they have treated me great. I moved once with them which cost a little money but they installed the new Pulse system at my new place since I was due for an upgrade to cellular anyways. I don't do the cameras etc. but I do turn it on and off from my phone and that is easy with their ADT app.
Home automation: This comes with the higher cost monitoring package but still very affordable. ADT pulse allows one to do things with a home that was once only available to the rich and the famous. Their free mobile app is available for iOS or Android. It controls everything from an arm and disarming the alarm to controlling the security camera. When testing the ADT Pulse app, we found some cool additional alerts you can set up based upon your area.
The story: Founded in 1874 by Edward Calahan. They started out as a messenger/alarm service but quickly added fire and local authorities. In 1909, they were purchased by AT&T (a name you surely recognize). Shortly thereafter, AT&T sold ADT again. Fast forward some years to 1969 and ADT went public. In 1984, the were renamed and ten years later passed their one-millionth customer. In 1997, Tyco International Ltd. bought them out and since then they have acquired dozens of Ma & Pa security companies as well as big ones such as Brinks and Broadview Security.
Not specifically to do with the cameras, more the system it is attached to, but generally speaking you are only able to record a single 30s clip every 5 minutes. That’s a game-changer and should be enough to avoid ADT completely. I have a little “trick” in place which will allow me to record 1:30 (3 contiguous 30s clips) after motion is detected which is messy, but better that 30s.

ADT is not an honest company. Worse company ever. Very bad customer service , useless and they toss you around from one vendor to the other!End result nothing we can do , just pay your bill and shut the hell up.I would never recommend this company to anyone and I will make sure my comments are showing on every social media .Bottom line, they don’t tell you that you are locked in a 3 year contract ,and if you relocate , they will renew your contract for a new 3 years term!What a rip -off.

To protect your privacy, Zmodo apps and 720p Wireless IP Camera devices connect to the Zmodo servers using bank-level AES 256-bit encryption and Transport Layer Security (TLS). All video and pictures are secured with AES 256-bit symmetric-key encryption. Only the customer can decrypt and view the video through approved clients (our mobile and web apps) with their account credentials. The Zmodo 720p Wireless IP Camera also has perfect forward secrecy, using AES 256-bit private keys for key exchange with the Zmodo servers. We also employ other security measures to protect private data, such as secure HTTP access (HTTPS) using TLS/SSL, and more.
Worst service ever. Was told that I would be quoted one thing when I ended up having to spend much more. Have been trying to get reimbursed for over a month now. Also spoke with someone on the phone and I expressed my frustrations and they literally laughed at me. I will never go with this company again. After my contract is up we will be done.Read More
Belkin was first formed in 1983. Their camera on display is Belkin NetCam HD+. The video resolution and frame goes for 1280 x 720/25fps. Field of views goes up to 95 degrees. Night vision covers up to twenty-six feet with 850nm IR LEDs. Connectivity measures at 802.11b/g/n. The Belkin NetCam HD+ comes with a built-in microphone & speaker. Cloud storage holds up to fourteen days of footage for $9.99 per month. The pros are affordable, easy setup, remotely controls WeMo-compatible home accessories, and night vision. The cons are camera occasionally struggles to stream 720p and WeMo functionality broken out into separate app.
I feel safer both at home and when I’m away. It took no time at all to get used to the system and set up additional codes for those special people who needed them. So far, I’ve only set the alarm off by accident once, when I tossed open a downstairs window one morning before turning off the alarm. Fortunately, I was close enough to the keypad to stop it almost as quickly as it started. It was a great reminder that the alarm is immediate and LOUD!

Kyle is all about first-hand experience and hands-on testing. He has BA in Creative Writing from Weber State University and comes to ASecureLife.com with extensive experience testing and installing security cameras, security system equipment, and personal safety devices. With two kids at home, Kyle’s also a huge advocate for safety in the home and is passionate about sharing his findings with as many people as possible.

Their products have stayed up to date. They do a lot of product testing and data gathering before launching a new product into their lineup. Because of this careful consideration (and lack of bugs in their app) I will continue to be loyal to ADT. I have friends that go with other companies only to suffer lots of technical problems, faulty equipment and things that can only be worked out over years of testing with millions of users.
Netgear Arlo Q: The video resolution and frame goes for 1080p/30 fps. Field of views goes up to 130 degrees. Night vision covers up to twenty-five feet. Connectivity measures at 802.11 b/g/n. The Netgear Alro Q comes with a built-in microphone & speaker. Cloud storage holds up to seven days of footage for free. Further storage starts at $10/month. The pros are simple, trouble-free setup, intuitive, flexible scheduling, unusual level of control over motion detection, scheduling, excellent video quality, generous free cloud plan, and easy social sharing of videos. The cons are single-user mobile app, difficult Custom Mode setup, activity Zones not part of motion-detection controls, and timeline requires expensive subscription.

This particular Shield system comes with the SimpliSafe base station (which plugs into the wall), six entry sensors, two motion sensors, a keypad, and a key fob so you can easily arm the system when you leave. Like many other systems on this list, SimpliSafe doesn’t require any tools to install. Just stick the sensors to your windows and doors, pair them with the mobile app, and you’re ready to go. SimpliSafe sells additional sensors so you can expand your system as needed. It is compatible with Amazon Alexa.

Although we always recommend choosing a professionally monitored home security system, we understand that isn’t the right choice for everyone. If you’d rather handle the installation and monitoring on your own, consider one of these DIY alarm systems. And for more ideas about how you can protect your home yourself, check out our article with DIY home security tips.
A smart lock is typically part of a robust smart home security setup, but you don't have to invest in a full-blown system to use one. If you're using a home automation hub to control things like lighting and thermostats, you can add a Z-Wave or Zigbee smart lock to the system without much effort. Alternately, if you don't have a home automation hub, look for a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth lock that comes with its own mobile app. Smart locks use standard pre-drilled holes and are fairly easy to install. Some models use your existing keyed cylinder and deadbolt hardware and attach to the inside of your door, while others require that you remove your existing interior and exterior escutcheons and replace the deadbolt and strike hardware.
ADT leases its equipment, but the company doesn’t require customers to return equipment at the end of a contract. The price of equipment is included in your monthly payment; however, ADT is known to offer special deals that may eliminate the equipment cost when you sign a monitoring contract. Talk to a representative to find out what deals are available when you set up your ADT security system.

I talked with a representative about a home security system. As we talked she asked me questions regarding number of windows/doors etc. She told me we would get window/doors sensors (never actually told me how many my mistake for not asking), also told me it wasn't a problem to include an extra key fob and the really great news was we were going to have all this "free" money to purchase anything else we wanted off the service truck. Salesman and installer arrive and we find out that extra key fob was coming out of our "free" money the representative never ever mentioned this fact.

ADT offers pretty much everything in the realm of home security, so just about anybody could find want they want from the company. If you need a simple setup, we suggest getting your doors and windows alarmed with Basic Wireless. If you want something to make your life a little easier (and cooler), we recommend the ADT Pulse setup so you can control just about everything in your house. If you want to be absolutely secure, it’s worth investing in ADT security cameras and video surveillance on top of the basic package.
If you were asked to name security companies, ADT would likely be one of the first to come to your mind. As the largest and oldest home security company in the United States, it has monitoring stations across the country and sells a variety of security devices and surveillance cameras. Most other home security businesses compare themselves to ADT because of this dominance. Though ADT has good security camera options, it isn't as transparent about its prices and packages as other home surveillance services.

When your house will be empty, you can arm the system in "Away Armed" mode for maximum protection and coverage. When you're at home or sleeping, you can arm the system in "Home Armed" mode. This will keep the perimeter secure (doors and windows armed) while allowing you to get up, and move around inside the house (motion detectors disarmed). Getting a late night snack won't wake up the whole house!

I have ADT..I had to get it after we were robbed one afternoon while we were at work..I like ADT they are quick to call you if there is a problem and they will work with you if you have any questions..The only downside to ADT is that they are getting expensive..I have not priced around yet but I think that they are charging way to much a month for just the basics..Overall I have been happy with them..
After your questions are answered about ADT equipment costs and savings, the ADT monitoring rate is the other part of the home security system equation. Alarm monitoring with ADT's monitoring center network is unparalleled in the industry. No other company offers you 6 monitoring centers located across North America. You might be concerned that the best monitoring won't have the best price tag. Rest assured, it's all very competitively priced.
Vivint Flex Pay gives you the option to purchase your equipment up front with no added monthly cost—and no contract—or to finance the equipment interest-free over a 42- or 60-month contract. We think it’s awesome that Vivint gives you multiple options, but you should know that even though choosing a contract means you pay less upfront, you’ll have to pay 100% of the remaining contract if you cancel early.
ADT uses security equipment by Honeywell, GE, and ITI. Warranty only comes if you buy a Quality Service Plan (QSP). With QSP, there is no extra charge to replace or fix faulty equipment in the first 90 days after the installation. After that, you receive free replacement parts and repairs only if you continue to pay for the QSP. Plus, any service trip costs about $25 depending on your location.
After doing quite a bit of research into home security systems I was referred to ADT. After speaking with a sales representative and being completely up front and honest on my end, the sales person completely lied about the equipment that would be provided, the cost of the monitoring service, AND even the offer of the referral and gifts cards with their deal.
One of the most cost-effective security companies in the industry, Protect America makes fitting home security into your monthly budget straightforward. Equipment is included with any monitoring plan, meaning you don’t have to pay an upfront cost — usually a few hundred dollars — to start protecting your home. Plus, because it’s a DIY installation, you won’t have to worry about any additional fees to get your system up and running.
The company’s long history in the industry and 24/7 customer support are a great incentive to customers looking for a reliable home security system. Additionally, ADT’s six monitoring centers ensure that in the event that a center goes offline for any reason, the call for help is automatically routed to the next available center. Thus, your family will always be protected.
I upgraded from ADT basic after 8 years to ADT Pulse and it feels like a whole new company and equipment. I went from having to enter my keycode into the panel to now being able to use the Pulse app from our phones and tablets and having live access through the cameras anytime. It cost about $15 more a month than what I was paying but we got rid of the land line and are loving it. Get what you think you might want ahead of time so you don't have to pay to upgrade later. They have good deals and promo's as well.
Many of ADT’s higher-end home automation offerings are customizable (although this will affect your final price). There’s a vacation mode that arms the system, keeps a steady temperature, and turns lights on and off to suggest that someone’s home. You can also set up situational operations. For example, if the sensor detects a fire, you can automate doors to unlock and the air conditioner to shut off, slowing the circulation of smoke.
Setting up your security system on your own saves you money that you’d normally spend on professional installation—but your time is valuable too, so installing your own system still needs to be easy. SimpliSafe’s equipment is easy to set up. You don’t need to connect any wires or drill holes. This means you can set it up quickly, but it also means you can pack it up and move it to a new place without much trouble, which makes SimpliSafe an excellent option for renters.
Over ten years service and I upgraded to their new Pulse system. Because I've been a customer for so long they didn't put up a fight when I wanted a whole new wireless system. I was able to get it and have a few camera's, key remotes and things we have been missing out on for the past few years. ADT is the clear winner in my books, I hear horror stories of other companies jumping up the rate, going out of service or having 5 year agreements. You don't have to worry about any of this with the ol' White and Blue.
GetSafe offers excellent customer support both during and after the purchasing process. Customer reviews note that customer service reps are helpful when explaining products and packages, as well as quick to troubleshoot equipment issues. Along with great service, SimpliSafe also includes regular software updates and enhancements, so you can rest easy knowing your equipment is up to date.
ADT Pulse Interactive Services Required with any mention of ADT Pulse ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services, which help you manage your home environment and family lifestyle, requires the purchase and/or activation of an ADT alarm system with monitored burglary service and a compatible computer, cell phone or PDA with Internet and email access. These ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services do not cover the operation or maintenance of any household equipment/systems that are connected to the ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services/Equipment. All ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services are not available with the various levels of ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services. All ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services may not be available in all geographic areas. You may be required to pay additional charges to purchase equipment required to utilize the ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services features you desire.